Treasures of the Deep

David Shukman goes on board the British research ship James Cook amid signs of a global race to mine the ocean floor. But will a deep sea gold rush cause lasting ecological damage?

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In the deep ocean, scientists are making astonishing discoveries of highly unusual forms of life including blind shrimp. Strange chimneys known as hydrothermal vents belch superheated water exceptionally rich in minerals such as copper and gold. The BBC's Science Editor, David Shukman, goes on board the British research ship James Cook amid signs of a global race to mine the ocean floor. The question is whether a deep sea gold rush will cause lasting ecological damage.